Got a day off and don’t know where to go? Here’s an idea – try visiting somewhere different for a change.

We love to trot off to all the traditional tourist spots in Derby, but why not try somewhere different.

From zoos to waterparks, museums and manor houses there’s something here for everyone – and all these place are around an hour’s drive (give or take a few miles) from Derby.

1. Twycross Zoo

Twycross Zoo is a renowned as a World Primate Centre - it's a must for monkey fans!

Twycross Zoo is renowned as a World Primate Centre and has a wide variety of monkeys and apes – including the UK’s only group of bonobos.

It was founded in 1963 by pet shop owners Molly Badham and Natalie Evans. Since then, it has become a firm favourite for visitors. As well as monkeys, the zoo has a range of other species including Asian elephants, snow leopards, penguins, meerkats, tapir and the world’s rarest big cat, the Amur leopard.

The new Sky Trail and Mini Golf Course at the Holme Pierrepont Family Fun Park

The Holme Pierrepont Country Park underwent significant improvements in 2014 designed to enhance the facilities across the 270 acre site including the construction of a new family fun park.

Now there’s an exciting new sky rail, high rope course, mini golf and Segway hire. On top of all this, there’s also cycle hire, lagoon wipeout, white water rafting and outdoor laser tag.

Prices vary considerable depending on what activity you want to try, but for more information, opening times and availability, visit http://www.nwscnotts.com/

Telephone: 0115 982 1212.

3. Magna Science Adventure Centre

If you've never been to the Magna Science Adventure Centre, you're missing a trick

Formerly a steelworks, the Magna Science Adventure Centre is a hands-on science exhibition in Templeborough, near Rotherham. It has over 100 exciting exhibits and there’s a pavilion for each of the four elements - earth, fire, wind and water.

The building is a third of a mile long, and 150ft high, and produced 2 million tonnes of steel every year in its heyday before it closed in 1993. Eight years later, Magna Science Adventure Centre opened its doors to the public.

Entry fees start at £4.50 for children, and £10.95 for adults, aged 16 and over. The centre (including the café) is open from 10am-5pm every day. For more information, visit https://www.visitmagna.co.uk/

Telephone: 01709 720002.

4. Hathersage Swimming Pool

Hathersage Swimming Pool opened its doors for the first time in 1936 - you must go!

Hathersage Pool is must-go if you love swimming and like the idea of being outside! It’s heated at a warm 28C and gets extremely popular in the summer. The pool is 100ft long and opened in 1936 as part of the King George Memorial Field. Entry fee used to be 6p for adults!

The cost is slightly higher now. Adults, 19-64 now pay £6.50, juniors £3.50 and under 4’s go free. For opening times and other information, visit http://www.hathersageswimmingpool.co.uk/

Telephone: 01433 650843.

5. Haddon Hall

Haddon Hall is a must-see - considering it is the back-drop for so many TV shows and films

Ever been to Haddon Hall? It’s a must. This manor house – the setting for loads of TV shows and films – oozes lots of medieval charm and history.

In the 1920s, the 9 Duke and Duchess of Rutland restored the property to make it habitable again. The grounds have many floral gardens, water fountains and stone features, which are beautiful to see. Take a picnic.

A colony of 12 Gentoo penguins have recently settled into their new home at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham.

Literally hundreds of marine animals are displayed at the Birmingham Sea Life Centre – and families will love it.

From the well-known Bev the octopus to the brand new baby Gentoo penguin, visitors young and old will soak up the delights. The centre is heavily involved in conservation projects, rescue and wildlife protection.

Extra activities are always going on and you can even have your Birthday party there!

Tickets cost £20.95 on the door – but book online and it only costs £12.75.

Bet you’ve never been to Stafford Castle? This ancient site is just an hour away from Derby and there’s lots to see. A number of castles were built on the land since 1100AD but none of them survived. The current castle was created in the early 19 century.

There’s a full programme of events to enjoy, including themed tours, talks and workshops. There’s a visitors centre and a huge fragrant herb garden, where you can explore.

With 300 years of art history, Wolverhampton’s Art Gallery welcomes you to view its world-class exhibitions, featuring paintings by Gainsborough.

And while an art gallery might not seem like a child-friendly place to visit – little people are welcome! There are regular family-friendly activities for children and they change daily. The gift shop is worth a visit too as a wide range of products have been handmade by artists and craftsmen in Wolverhampton.

If you love chocolate then Cadbury World has to be worth a visit - you get to eat some!

Love chocolate? This day out is perfect for you. You’ll get to explore the Birmingham factory where chocolate is made – and eat it! You’ll see exhibitions telling you how chocolate is made – including where it is from. It’s a real chocolate adventure and after the tour you get to go shopping in the world’s biggest Cadbury shop. There’s also an African adventure play area and a 4D show for all visitors.

Adult tickets cost £16.75, tickets for children aged 4-15 cost £12.30, and under 4’s go free. For more information including opening times for the various attractions, visit https://www.cadburyworld.co.uk

Telephone: 0844 880 7667.

12. Coventry Transport Museum

There are more than a MILLION things to see at Coventry Transport Museum

With 300 cycles, 120 motorcycles and 250 cars – this is a must for anyone who loves wheels.